Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
It is used medically to treat certain muscular conditions and cosmetically remove wrinkles by temporarily relaxing muscles.
Frown lines
Forehead lines
Crow’s feet
Lower eyelid wrinkles
Eyebrow lift
Bunny and lip lines
Cobblestoned chin
Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
Facial slimming
Calf contouring
Botulinum toxin relaxes muscles and prevents strong contractions in areas such as the forehead, corners of the eyes, frown lines, etc. Lines and wrinkles develop due to repeated creasing of the skin due to contraction – by relaxing muscle contractions, botulinum toxin may be used to reduce lines and wrinkles.
Jaw reduction works by relaxing the bulky lower jaw muscles with botulinum toxin. Once relaxed, the muscles start losing 20-30% of their bulk as it is less worked. The muscle atrophy occurs over 3-4 weeks to achieve a sharper, more feminine face.
When diluted and administered to the dermal layer instead of facial muscles, diluted botulinum toxin may be used to tighten the skin. When administered on specific regions of the face, it may help tighten and lift the whole face.
Botulinum toxin, when used superficially on facial skin, may stop oil production and tighten pores by inhibiting the signals to the oil glands. The skin may also be tightened superficially.
Calf reduction and contouring can be achieved with botulinum toxin similar to jaw reduction by relaxing calf muscles. A slimmer, more contoured calf can be achieved within 4 weeks.
Botulinum toxin may also be used to inhibit the production of sweat at the underarms or palms of our hands. People suffering from sweaty palms or body odour from underarms may be treated with botulinum toxin effectively.
For lines and wrinkles, starting early gives the benefits of delaying wrinkle formation in the future. It is possible to start preventive treatment from your late twenties or early thirties onwards. For jaw reduction, the sooner you start, the faster and more prolonged results can be. For some, after 3-4 repeated jaw reduction treatments spaced 5-6 months apart, results may last for a much longer duration.
Botulinum toxin is administered directly into the muscle or skin. The procedures usually take 15 minutes or less. Numbing cream may be applied in some cases to make the procedures more comfortable.
Dr YZ Tan is a trainer in the technique of administering botulinum toxin. With multiple certificates and courses under his belt from various countries, Dr Tan has honed his techniques to focus on maximum results with minimal discomfort.
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This page is intended for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. For an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan, please consult with our licensed medical professionals.
